As a new online seller, order fulfillment is one aspect of your business that you must learn how to deal with. Even though you are not directly involved in the process, there are several eCommerce shipping solutions to choose from. This is to prevent making mistakes that can result in wasting time and money and getting customer complaints.
Your job is not yet done after a buyer made an order. The next part is making sure that the package lands onto your customer's hands in a safe and timely manner. You should not only aim for a sale but also deliver excellent customer experience.
Here are the most common shipping mistakes and how can you prevent them:
Mistake no. 1: Ill-timed imports and exports
You may have devised the best eCommerce shipping solutions, but if your import and export timing is not correct, your efforts will be all for naught. It could lead to shipping delays and irate customers.
Solve this by preparing shipping quotes no less than a month before the actual shipping date. Ensure each shipment match with the freight rate quote. Do research on how long it takes for a shipment to arrive from one country to the other. And more importantly, maintain constant communication with your freight forwarder.
Mistake no. 2: Improperly packaged order
Damaged goods are either caused by mishandling or improper packing. You don't have control over the former since you are not physically there to supervise or oversee the operation. The least you could do is to ensure all your orders are correctly packaged.
Proper packaging involves using the right size of the box for your products. Protect it from falls and shakes by filling it with cushioning materials like bubble wrap, paper, foam sheets, and air pillows. For bulky and large items, use sturdy packaging or boxes. Also, ensure that you read the freight forwarder's packaging guidelines to avoid delays and missed shipments.
Mistake no. 3: Uninsured shipments
Packages get lost, damaged, or stolen, and yours is no exception. Shipping insurance protects you from the three and lets you receive reimbursement for the affected item. You can avail from the shipping company you will be working with, but make sure that you choose the right type of insurance.
Generally, there are two types of insurance: declared value coverage and third-party shipping insurance. If you want full-coverage protection of your goods, get third-party shipping insurance that will help handle your claim on your behalf.
Mistake no. 4: Incorrect shipping labels
You can also avoid lost packages by putting a shipping label on it. The shipping label displays the tracking number, package quantity, postal code, sender's name and address, recipient's name and address, and service method.
Prevent shipping label errors by removing old mailing labels from your shipment—clean first the surface before placing the shipping label. Double-check the contents in the label and attach it properly. Ensure to protect it by covering it with transparent adhesive tape.
Mistake no. 5: Sellers who don't have a clear understanding of customs regulations
Customs only enter the picture when you are shipping internationally or cross-border. It pertains to the fees, duties, and taxes charged on goods from one country to another. However, every country has its customs regulations that you should be aware of to avoid your shipment being seized by its customs agency, an inconvenience that you should prevent at all costs.
You can fix this by checking if each package satisfies customs requirements. Ensure that all your documentation is ready and correctly filled out. Better yet, work with a trusted customs broker to handle the entire process.
Mistake no. 6: Choosing cheap shipping rates
When we say "cheap," we refer to the quality of service of a freight forwarder. They may offer the lowest-priced freight rates in the market, but it is not worth it if they can't deliver your packages in one piece.
When choosing a shipping company, research first their reputation in the industry. Send an inquiry email to check how responsive they are. Look into their social media pages and read the reviews left by their previous clients.
But if you want to find which shipping service is cheapest, go for bulk shipping solutions or eCommerce shipping options. Just practice due diligence when you look for a reliable shipping company.
Mistake no. 7: Aversion to innovation
The shipping industry continues to change and innovate as time goes by. As an entrepreneur, you might as well join the bandwagon or face being left behind by your competitors. One of the technologies you must implement is shipping automation.
One of the examples of shipping automation solutions is Stallion Express eCommerce integrations. With a click of a button, you can create and edit multiple shipments. It also allows you to print shipping labels. It is fully compatible with Etsy, Shopify, eBay, and Amazon platforms.
Conclusion
Shipping mistakes will not only tarnish your reputation, but it can hurt your bottom line. You must take a proactive approach to avoid the costly errors mentioned above and apply our recommended solutions to prevent it in the future. You may mix your shipping strategy with eCommerce shipping solutions, shipping automation, freight insurance, and keeping yourself up-to-date to the latest news about shipping. Moreover, you should be obsessed with customer satisfaction to keep pushing yourself to be the best in your field.
At Stallion Express, we offer the best eCommerce shipping solutions and state-of-the-art shipping integrations. We also have a team of experienced consultants who are willing to assist you with your local and international shipping needs. For inquiries, you can call +1 877-863-7447 or email [email protected].
Table of Contents: E-Commerce Shipping Solutions and Strategies in Canada Setting Up Your Shipping Rates Mix n’ Match Strategy Packaging Methods Keeping Your Margins Profitable Turn Your Packaging Into a Marketing Opportunity Tracking and Insurance Choosing Your E-Commerce Shipping Solutions in Canada The Types of Domestic Carriers Stallion Express Conclusion So you've put in the […]
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